The Legatum Center for Development & Entrepreneurship at MIT recently introduced the inaugural cohort of Legatum Foundry Fellows. Hailing from eight countries, these 13 entrepreneurs have grown ventures operating in nine different markets across Africa. Having pioneered innovations in health care, fintech, education, and more, the Foundry Fellows are dedicated to transforming systems and improving lives on the continent.

Launched [in early 2021], the Foundry Fellowship is a first-of-its-kind fellowship focused on African entrepreneurs who have successfully grown ventures on the continent and have arrived at an inflection point in their entrepreneurial journeys. Building on the MIT ethos of "mens et manus" ("mind and hand"), the Legatum Center Foundry is a place where entrepreneurs come together to reflect on their achievements and shape their futures as leaders in business, investing, and governance. Collectively, the fellows will explore the future of innovation ecosystems in Africa and demonstrate how Africa can be a hub for innovation globally.

"Legatum Center welcomes the inaugural Foundry Fellows," MIT News, 25 October 2021

Inaugural Foundry Fellows include:

• Adebayo Alonge, RxAll - Nigeria
• Opeyemi Awoyemi, WhoGoHost, Jobberman, and Moneymie - Nigeria
• Chinedu Azodoh, MAX - Nigeria
• Sylvia Banda, Sylva Food Solutions - Zambia
• Ehi Binitie, Rancard and Clear Space Labs - Ghana and Nigeria
• Audrey Cheng, Moringa School - Kenya and Rwanda
• Nnaemeka Ikegwuonu, ColdHubs - Nigeria
• Clarisse Iribagiza, Hehe Academy - Rwanda
• Delila Khaled, Development Innovations Group and Global Bio Fund - Egypt
• Dare Okoudjou of MFS Africa - South Africa
• Obafemi Olayebi of Femi Handbags and Lagos Leather Fair - Nigeria
• Brukty Tadesse of Whiz Kids Workshop - Ethiopia
• Affiong Williams, ReelFruit - Nigeria